Robin Quarrier currently serves as President on the Board of Directors of the Women’s Environmental Network and is Chief Counsel at Center for Resource Solutions (CRS). At CRS, Robin manages legal issues such as contract negotiations, marketing claims, and the Green-e intellectual property portfolio. She is involved in the development of new standards and policies for the Green-e Energy program, and manages a semi-annual compliance review of marketing materials. Robin is the liaison with outside counsel and conducts coalition-building and policy writing. In July 2012, the State Department selected Robin to participate in the Foreign Speakers Program in Mongolia where she moderated and presented at the International Women’s Leadership Forum. Robin earned her Bachelor’s degree from Darthmouth College and a J.D. from from University of Arizona.
How long have you been a WEN member? If a Board member, please state your position and how you bring value to the team.
I’ve been on the Board of WEN for a little over three years and a member for almost four years. I have served as Events Chair and Secretary, and for the last year I have had the pleasure of serving as President of the Board of Directors. I run our monthly meetings, create agendas and facilitate Board recruitment. It’s a lot of fun and very rewarding.
What do you like best about being part of WEN?
The aspects I like most about WEN is the camaraderie, ability to get things done and supportive teamwork among the women on the Board. We look for ways to support each other in our careers and in WEN. I love that we defy stereotypes of women especially in the environmental and energy sector. Also, the members are very appreciative of our networking opportunities and educational panels.
Tell us more about yourself.
I am a firm believer that women should be treated as equals to men. That was how I was brought up and I didn’t encounter many obstacles as a woman until later in life. There are a lot of subtle things that need to change in the way women are treated before we can have equality, e.g., compensation, work/life balance, etc. I like that WEN takes a positive approach to these issues by creating networking opportunities that empower women.
What are some of your other activities?
I’m training in Aikido right now. Aikido is a great sport for women, as it is performed by blending with the motion of the attacker and redirecting the force of the attack rather than opposing it head-on. This can be a good way to deal with professional conflict as well.
What environmental issues are of most concern to you?
Climate change and pollution. As an asthmatic cyclist and runner, I notice when pollution hangs in the air. We should all be thinking about the long-term impacts of our decisions; whether it’s choosing to ride the train to work or participating in renewable energy options through your utility, everything has an impact.
